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Wednesday, April 16, 2008

The 17th Annual PFF (April 3-15) completed another successful screening of over 260 films, chock full of Q& A’s with the filmmakers, including celebs, William H. Macy, Shane West, John Leguizamo, Jason Ritter and Patti Smith.

My festival experience was vast and varied, but why only one film offering at the festival by an African American filmmaker? (Barry Jenkins Medicine for Melancholy) It seemed only fair to let the festival have a chance to address this imbalance.

“As a film fest for international films we strive, beyond sanity, to seek out the very best in films representing the complete human condition. When we see films, while not blind to race,we certainly have no idea of the color of those behind the camera", responded Scott Johnston, PFF Regional Film Curator. "There is an irony in the fact that if we fail to represent African-American creators we will be viewed as 'exclusive' or myopic, at best, yet, if we place work based chiefly on the race of the individual - we'll be accused of tokenism, at best, or exploitation, at worst", continued Johnston.

Johnston went on to say, "If the films I see are reinforcing negative stereotypes, yet are very well produced - what do I do?You mention a disparity of African-American in the mainstream, but last year, Lee Daniels was our guest of guests and his film showcased to great effect.
Mike Dennis of ReelBlack does monthly, sometimes weekly, screenings here in town and premieres a LOT of local work that (by my mission statement) prohibits my screening the films as they have already premiered".

When ask if the Festival has trouble attracting African-American filmmakers? Johnston's response – "No. Filmon Mebrahtu, Shannon Newby, Rodney Whittenberg and dozens of filmmakers have submitted films, which we've showcased, and will doubtless have back(at least I hope so). If this year’s line-up seems to fall short of anyone’s expectations to truly represent cultural diversity - I apologize. I certainly shoot for inclusiveness of all peoples each year, and by and large I am proud of every year achieving that”.

Reelblack (www.reelblack.com) is a full-service film and video production company dedicated to creating and promoting "good movies 'bout Black Folks." founded in 1999 by award-winning filmmaker Michael Dennis (a.k.a. Mike D.)

Mike D’s response : “I don't really have anything negative to say, I think there is a definite need for an African-American Film Festival in this city and I wouldn't expect PFF, which has its own niche to take responsibility for filling the void.

Personally, I’m not that anxious for PFF to start programming an Urban or Hip Hop portion of the festival, as it would be competition for me. I don’t know what other Black filmmakers have encountered when submitting to PFF, or how many submit. I do know, that a number of the filmmakers I work with, prefer to have their work go straight to video and get it out there that way, rather than the expense of the festival circuit.”

Suck My Pretty Toes picks for Philadelphia Film Festival Favorites:Lovely By Surprise (USA / Writer/Director, Kirt Gunn) A film in the vein of “Adaptation” or “Stranger Than Fiction” where the main character is a writer, dealing with their fictional characters becoming all too real. If you are patient and give this film a chance to make sense, you’ll come away with a good tale, full of pathos. If you need a film to fully explain itself, than I doubt you’ll find it lovely at all. - Rating: Pretty Index ToeMedicine for Melancholy (USA / Writer/Director, Barry Jenkins) A 24-hour romance, a la “Before Sunset” (Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy) but not as dialogue heavy. It would be refreshing if the film just dealt with a one-night stand and infidelity, which happened to feature a Black couple. However, in this case, the extenuating plot, involving race does inform the characters. Micca (Wyatt Cenac) is a black man born and raised in predominately white San Francisco, where Blacks make up only 7% of the population, a fact that Micca is all too aware. Joanne (Tracey Heggins) is a transplant to SF, and not particularly affected by diversity. Her concern is that she’s cheating on her boyfriend, not cheating on her “White Boyfriend”. Micca’s more concerned that her boyfriend is White, than the fact that she’s unavailable.
The Q&A with Jenkins revealed, a lot of the charming and funny moments came from the improvisation of lead actor, comedian, Wyatt Cenac. Surprising too, this was Cenac’s acting debut! Rating: Pretty Middle Toe

John Leguizamo (Carlito’s Way, Moulin Rouge, Summer of Sam) was given the Festival’s Artistic Achievement Award. The evening featured Leguizamo being interviewed Actor’s Studio style, revealing him to be the way we perceived him to be - both committed artist and cocky comedian. We were treated to anecdotes of the time he nearly came to blows with Patrick Swayze, both of them ready to rip off wigs and “F” me pumps to go at it.
Also the many mishaps during the shooting of his current films The Take (which premiered after the interview - see below for review) Things like the Kraft Services chef being shot on location, because the neighborhood kids wanted to eat for free, numerous crew members quitting, including hair and make up, which left Rosie Perez to do her own. And Leguizamo’s trailer being repossessed with him still in it!

The Take (USA / Philadelphia Director, Brad Furman) This is an all too real and terrifying story of a decent family man (Leguizamo) shot on the job while driving an armored truck. His struggles to recover from being shot in the head, deal with his anger over the incident, and clear his name when accused of being the “Inside Man” on the robbery is depicted as gritty, unfair and bad for my nerves. Rating: Pretty 4th Toe

Then She Found Me (USA / Director Helen Hunt) Not to down-grade the film, but Helen Hunt's directorial debut will be an excellent renter - will fly off the shelve as soon as it reaches Blockbuster & Netflix, but don't think it will do much box office. Hunt plays a 39 year-old woman, very Jewish, not by blood, but by adoption. She desperately wants to have a baby, but her new marriage to a very immature (Matthew Broderick) falls apart quickly. She soon begins an awkward romance with (Colin Firth), discovers she's pregnant with her husband's child, her adoptive mother dies and her birth mother (Bette Midler) bursts into her life.
In the Bible, God often makes major changes and transformations in a period of 40, since the movie deals with religious over tones, one wonders if Hunt had this theme in mind.Rating: Pretty Middle Toe

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Food n Film: BURNT

Bradley Cooper has more than charisma, he has an over abundance of Chi, which radiates out from him; so for me, this role as temperamental and damaged chef Adam Jones, who also inspires great love and admiration from those around him, works on the level of characterization. In fact, I think he's among a very short list of actors who would be able to pull off being so self-involved and yet likable. Doesn't hurt that he really speaks French too! READ POST

Eater Philly - All

Food n Film: CHEF

Much of the movie centers around the father/son relationship, and how much they learn from each other. But the real star of the film is all the food preparation, every other scene made me groan with want of everything up on that screen! Particularly the perfectly roasted and rubbed brisket, the crispy fat of the pork belly, sizzling bacon and the much ballyhooed Chocolate Lava Cake. READ POST

CITY OF GOLD

The key to deciphering both the city it beautifully depicts and the man who eats it best - City of Gold

By Tinsel & Tine Contributor Denine Gorniak (The Bicycle-Chef)

What Jonathan Gold, Los Angeles Times food critic/writer, has done for food writing journalism and for the restaurants that he loves, the movie, City of Gold has done for Jonathan Gold and Los Angeles and its surrounding environs – it has planted taco covered kisses on them... READ POST

Food n Film: CHOCOLAT

If you’re a foodie movie lover who saw Lasse Hallström’s The Hundred Foot Journey (see T&T post), this summer you may be wondering what delicious visual journey might be awaiting you in the theater next. Well, how about a look back at his film Chocolat (2000), which stars French actress Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench and Johnny Depp. Hallström’s has a special talent for turning cooking into a dramatic movie journey...READ MORE

Food n Film: THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY

...young Hassan, a soulful-eyed boy with lush, thick eye lashes, places his face into the sea urchin basket, and breathes in the exotic briny scent. He sticks his fingers into the aquatic ooze, takes it to his mouth and is transfixed by the taste. The vendor, oblivious to the thrusting arms of frenzied women, notices the boy and realizes he is the only one worthy of this oceanic prize; he is the one who can “truly taste.” ... READ MORE

Food n Film: JULIE & JULIA

Personally, I like the unevenness of it, because I fell in love with the post World War II, Parisian sights, sounds, food and romance between Julia and Paul. I always felt a bit jarred back into reality when the scenes returned to Julie's meltdowns and cramped kitchen.READ POST

Food n Film: EAT PRAY LOVE

Six months into my 38th year of this life, I had my first panic attack. I didn't know that's what it was until months later. Symptom after symptom starting piling up on me until there were days I could no longer move my arms or neck. The doctors told me I was suffering from an auto-immune condition that they felt was most likely Lupus. And so began my much deeper journey and exploration into the world of spirit, alternative medicine, yoga, meditation and Eat, Pray, Love. READ POST

Philadelphia Magazine » Blog » Foobooz

Food n Film: TODAY'S SPECIAL

With a film like this, food plays a main character in the story and I was lucky enough to get an interview with the film's Food Stylist, Janine Kalesis.READ POST

Food n Film: WAITRESS

In this 2007 film, Keri Russell stars as Jenna - a desolate diner waitress seeking solace in the art of pie-making. Trapped in an unhappy marriage, she’s eager to escape her husband and her small-town hell and sets about to make a run for it by entering an out of town pie baking contest. READ POST

Food n Film: BABETTE'S FEAST

Those of us in attendance were not only given the opportunity to see Babette's Feast, the Oscar winning, Danish film, considered one of the all-time great "food films"; we also got to taste Babette's menu! READ POST

WALKMS

I participated in WalkMS Philly on 4/30/16 Thank you to the readers who donated to the cause - It's not too late to support! Click badge below

Twitter Updates

CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHT

If you are a Philly or Tri-State area filmmaker about to embark on a Crowdfunding Campaign and would like some additional FREE promotion via Tinsel & Tine and our social media platforms... email me: tinseltine@gmail.com

Greater Philadelphia Film Office Party (GPFO 25)

CLICK IMAGE to check out pics from the GPFO event held at NU Millienium Studios

BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL 2017

CLICK IMAGE to see all of T&T's Coverage of the 6th Annual BlackStar Film Festival

AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER

T&T Weekly Movie Contribution on WWDBTalk860

Most Tuesdays at 3:45pm I Contribute to a Radio Program (WWDB-AM Talk 860/ iTunesRadio) THAT'S SHOW BIZ WITH CHUCK DARROW. The show features celebrity interviews and several contributors discussing different aspects of the entertainment industry with a slant toward Philly. T&T does the weekly movie segment LISTEN TO EACH WEEK'S PODCASTS

BRIGSBY BEAR | STEP | PATTI CAKE$

Here's 3 fantastic Indie's I saw back to back, where the director and/or cast came to Philly for a post screening Q&A. CLICK IMAGE to view post & videos

T&T Guests on Black Movie Podcast THE MICHEAUX MISSION

Got a chance to chat it up with Len & Vince about one of my favorite movies - Cassie Lemon's TALK TO ME LISTEN

REBECCA

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets

Philly Filmmakers:THE BILLBOARD BOYS

I think most of us agree the first Reality TV show was MTV's The Real World and the first competition reality show - Mark Burnett's Survivor. But did you know there was an event that both preceded and combined these two institutions? Back in 1982 the radio station WSAN came up with a publicity stunt that went viral, way before we ever knew the term, and in all places, Allentown PA. READ POST

Things to Do in Philly

TRANSFORMERS:THE LAST KNIGHT

ROUGH NIGHT

THE MUMMY

WONDER WOMAN

Once again Tinsel & Tine aka Buttercake Tribble joined in the post screening podcast review for @blacktribbles SPOILED TRIBBLES This time for WONDER WOMAN! You'd think it would be the female Tribbles getting hype over this movie, but the passionate reviews came from @battribble & @supertribble

GIFTED

For some reason, the next day when I was going over the movie in my head, I kept seeing and hearing Ben Affleck, instead of Chris Evans, There's certainly no way to confuse Batman with Captain America, but it just felt like Gifted... READ POST

THE ZOOKEEPERS WIFE

The high stakes life or death tension of everyone, those in hiding and those doing the hiding is played well throughout the movie. My only problem was the casting of Chastain. I'm normally a fan...READ POST

LA LA LAND

THE BODYGUARD MOVIE vs THE BODYGUARD, THE MUSICAL

RENZELL

A UNITED KINGDOM

I love that director Amma Assante who co-wrote and directed another movie I’m in love with called Belle(2013) has found another piece that combines history, race and romance all in one. Oyelowo and Pike have great chemistry, very believable as a couple, eventhough the two are separated throughout a good bit of the movie...READ POST

OSCARS COUNTDOWN PODCAST

KRUSH GROOVE

Tinsel & Tine Rating Systems

GOLD

Annual T&T Golden Globe Round Up

NOCTURNAL ANIMALS

"Nocturnal Animals" is an intriguing, well-wrought film that explores themes of loyalty, materialism, choices made too quickly...READ POST

FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS

Jenkins' vocal ambitions and imaginative costumes are of course the focal point of the movie, but it's Grant's role of common-law husband and manager, who's actually the protagonist of the film... READ POST

YANGMING WINE PAIRING DINNER

2016 Wrap Up in Movies

MISS SLOANE

COLLATERAL BEAUTY

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Philly Spotlight: JAWNT

Two 17 year-old starter entrepreneurs looking to enter the Philly Concierge business, contact T&T for some local promotion...READ POST

SING

BLOGHER INFLUENCER

DOCTOR STRANGE

For years, I've been a student of the mind, body, spirit connection and the power of our subconscious minds over our existence. I haven't been a very good student, as I would be in a much better set of circumstances now; still... READ POST

NATIONAL FOOD HOLIDAYS

WINE & BEER YAYS & NAYS

WHAT CAN I SAY, I LOVE CAKE!

Pinterest Love

TOKEN

Token Philly is a Grab + Go featuring Korean Barbecue, Bao Steamed Buns, Noodles and Rice Bowls. It's also a one stop for great carry out Beer Selections, Adult Milkshakes, Coffee, and more... by the same owners as Crabby Cafe next door... READ POST

25th Philadelphia Film Festival Coverage

Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival

PHILADELPHIA ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL 2016

The 9th Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival is Philly's home to the best films by and about Asian Americans. Opening Night Film "The Tiger Hunter" starring Danny Pudi READ MORE

T&T's sit down chat with TYLER PERRY

I’ve now interviewed both Ava DuVernay and Tyler Perry, do you realize how close that puts me to being in Oprah’s sphere! READ INTERVIEW

A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS

Impressive directorial & screenwriting debut for Natalie Portman based on the memoirs of Amos Oz. Set in the 1940's "A Tale of Love and Darkness" is told through the eyes of a young boy during the period when Israel goes from being a British Mandate to its own Country. His experience is shaped more profoundly by his beautiful mother (Portman) who goes from telling fable like tales on a regular basis to slipping farther and farther into depression. Very melancholy film, but so beautifully captured. Early Oscar contender for sure!

An Evening of Culinary Excellence: CUISINE NOIR Celebrates the Smithsonian's NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFR

This time T&T got a chance to cover a fabulous foodie event outside of Philly. I went to Washington D.C. for An Evening of Culinary Excellence hosted by Cuisine Noir magazine to celibrate the opening of the Smithsonian's NMAAHC READ POST

ZOMATO

FREE SCREENING PASSES

SUBSCRIBE to Tinsel &Tine's newsletter to be the first to receive movie passes from gofobo, Ritz Theaters, AMC, Cinemark, Regal and PFS Roxy

Half Popped Reviews

PHL BLOGGER

BLOGHER/SHEKNOWS

Bloglovin

Massive Sway

Google Ad Sense

RULES DON'T APPLY

THE BIRTH OF A NATION

I'm certainly not trying to be insensitive to the horrors of rape or suicide. But come on people, this movie is not the platform for that discussion. Nate Parker was not convicted of a crime and has grown up to have a beautiful family and a seven year journey to bringing forth his film - The Birth of a Nation...READ POST

ALMOST CHRISTMAS

Not only is Almost Christmas heartwarming, surprisingly well-written with plenty of laugh out loud moments, it's also a FOODIE FILM! READ POST

WARM STICKY BUN BREAD PUDDING

Grand Lux Cafe Exe. Pastry Chef, Ana Funes lead us into the cooking demo for Warm Sticky Bun Bread Pudding (served with whiskey sauce, sugared pecans and whipped cream). It's so easy even I can make it. In fact, I've added it to T&T's Pinterest Board of Easy Recipes. It's also the perfect dish to keep in mind to serve or bring as your Thanksgiving offering. READ POST

INFERNO

INFERNO Ron Howard’s 3rd Dan Brown novel brought to the screen, starring Tom Hanks as Symbologist Robert Langdon, finds himself in Italy suffering from amnesia and must rely heavily on a puzzle solving physician, (Felicity Jones) to figure out clues to Dante’s Inferno in order to save the world from a Biotech Billionaire’s mission to contaminate half the world’s population in order to protect the earth from overpopulation...SEE POST

SAUSAGE PARTY

Technically, There's No Such Thing as X-Rated Food, But This Does Give a Whole New Meaning to The Term Food Porn... READ POST

OPERATION AVALANCHE

When it comes to American conspiracy theories, #1 would be the circumstances around John F. Kennedy's assassination, #2 What really happened in Roswell, New Mexico, and #3 Would be the possibility the Apollo11 1969 Lunar Landing was faked, that Neil Armstrong never took neither step nor leap on the moon. If this conspiracy were true it begs the questions how do you make it look like astronauts landed on the moon, and who would be behind the subterfuge? Operation Avalanche

BEING WINED & DINED VIA OKCUPID

So regular readers know I decided to set up an OK Cupid profile to make it easier for Trekkie's to upload their info to enter T&T's be my Trekkie Guide Competition. I was going to take it down after the contest, but decided instead to change it to this:READ POST

QUEEN OF KATWE

Director Mira Nair brings us an authentic look at Uganda and a reminder that brilliance can happen anywhere and in anyone! 5 outta 5 score!

Philly Spotlight: TEASSERT BAR

THE DRESSMAKER

MAGNIFICENT 7

Never seen the original, so I can't compare or contrast or speak to whether or not the movie should have been remade - but what I can say is they found a perfect cast, and after all, a shootem up movie with a skimpy plot is all about the chemistry! Click to Like this pic on Instagram

LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS & COMPLETE UNKNOWN

MORGAN

DINER EN BLANC 2016

GROUPON COUPON

Very excited about this great opportunity to partner with GROUPON COUPONS! I didn't even know they had in store and online coupons...I will feature 26 Groupon Coupons starting with the letter "Z" working my way up to "A", tied into a Philadelphia Location or a blog musing. SEE OFFERS

BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL ROUND UP

The 5th Annual BlackStar Film Festival took place August 4-7, 2016. The last 2 years my schedule has only allowed me to attend opening night, this year it was nice to hang out and see more screenings and panels... Check Out Recap & Highlights

FOUNDING FOOTSTEPS BYOB TOUR OF PHILLY

Did you know that Benjamin Franklin not only created the very first Fire Department in Philadelphia, but that his entrepreneurial thinking also allowed him to capitalize on creating the very first Fire Insurance Company? Did you know the seat of our government would most likely have remained in Philadelphia if...READ POST

STAR TREK: MISSION NEW YORK

GHOSTBUSTERS

I may not have felt the movie was as strong as I was hoping it would be, but I'm in strong support of this female cast. All of them. That Leslie Jones Twitter attack is frightening, and even with all we've seen lately, shocking. READ POST

7 Mini Reviews of Summer Movies

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qFLIX LGBTQ Philly Film Fest Coverage

Hyatt Bellevue Renovations Unveiling

Recap of cocktail party/tour of Bellevue Hotel's new decor, led by Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design, which drew inspiration from the rich political, artistic, theatrical and musical history of Philadelphia View Photos

THE NEON DEMON

BFFs

I got a chance to ask filmmakers/actors Tara Karsian & Andrea Grano about the LGBT aspect of their film BffsREAD POST

HOW TO PLAN AN ORGY IN A SMALL TOWN

How to Plan an Orgy in a Small Town is definitely an amusing flick, but I was surprised to find out it's 40% comedy and 60% soft porn. I figured the title was a great device to grab an audience's attention, but that the movie would hardly be about an actual orgy, but it's really about a series of.. READ POST

A BIGGER SPLASH

In A Bigger Splash Swinton plays Marianne Lane a famous female glam rock personality recovering from throat surgery. She not only can't speak above a whisper, she's been told to refrain from speaking while her vocal chords heal. What better place to recuperate than on a beautiful Mediterranean Island called Pantelleria in Italy...Read Post

MIXOLOGIST COMPETITION: WOODFORD RESERVE MANHATTAN COMPETITION

The competition comprised of Philly mixologists and local bartenders offering their best Manhattan Cocktail for attendees to taste and judge. READ POST

RIP Garry Marshall

MOTHER'S DAY

NOW YOU SEE ME 2

It’s a year later and three of the Four Horsemen are still fugitives - Magician (J Daniel Atlas /Jesse Eisenberg), Mentalist (Merritt McKinney/Woody Harrelson) sleight-of-hander (Jack Wilder/Dave Franco) Isla Fisher was pregnant at the time of filming and declined to reprise her role as Illusionist Henley Reeves...READ POST

Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region Lip Sync Battle

Recap of the Philadelphia Independent Film AWARDS

American Ninja Warrior Comes to Philadelphia

I was asked to interview one of the hosts of NBC's American Ninja Warrior Akbar Gbajabiamila when the show came to Philly recently. My availability couldn't accommodate the taping schedule, but I was happy to pass along the opportunity to fellow PHL Blogger Sarah Ramirez of Shades of Sarah who is a big fan of the show! READ POST

ENTER TO WIN A SAMPLE MULTI-PACK OF FARMER'S PANTRY CORNBREAD CRISPS

They are a delicious, addictive, healthy and natural snack made from fresh corn and other whole grains grown on American farms. They truly have become my 2nd favorite go to snack and I do A LOT of snacking! READ POST

WEINER

PMA & Positano Coast Event Art Inside Out

Next time you're walking around Old City check out the reproductions of PMA masterpieces now adorning the streets - an initiative funded by John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to bring art into communities. View Photos

SEX WITH STRANGERS (play)

MONEY MONSTER

“She [Patty played by Julia Roberts] really is the hero of the movie and is able to multi-task and get more done in this crisis than even authorities,” Foster concedes of the rare alpha female on-screen. “She’s producing Clooney’s survival.” And unlike many of Hollywood’s other lifesaving women, Roberts gets to do so without being vacuum-packed into spandex and six-inch heels... READ POST

Benjamin Foods 5th Annual Food Show

Attended this fun, foodie Trade Show! Did some networking in terms of partnering with food brands as a blog influencer. See Photo Album

KEANU

T&T Interview with ICE CUBE FOR BARBERSHOP 3

CRIMINAL

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE

I think the critics have been way too hard on the movie (29% RT), not that it dampened the box office - $424M opening weekend! Check out our likes and dislikes for this DC Universe Blockbuster READ POST

WIN ONE OF THESE 2 NEW SPRING COOKBOOKS!

This month's Foodie Giveaway: THE QUICK SIX FIX by Stuart O’Keeffe (March 2016) Stuart demonstrates how to cut kitchen time, save money, and get out of the kitchen in thirty minutes or less. LOSE WEIGHT BY EATING by Audrey Johns (April 2016) who takes more than 130 recipes that are typically full of unhealthy processed foods and empty calories—recipes we simply shouldn’t eat every day—and creates skinny versions. ENTER VIA RAFFLECOPTER

LUNA CAFE

T&T: I always wonder how people come up with the name for their restaurants. Do you feel a particular pull from the moon, inspiring the name Luna Cafe? READ POST

GRAND LUX CAFE

IMLI INDIAN KITCHEN

Arshad "Mo" Chugtai, former Cafe Spice owner opened Imili Indian Kitchen (BYOB) May of 2015, but recently brought in new Executive Chef Bimol V. Sarkar, who has completely changed their menu. So Craig should probably go back for a second review...READ POST

EYE IN THE SKY

Unfolding almost in real-time as it details an operation to take out a group of terrorists in Nairobi, led by Helen Mirren’s determined Colonel Powell, the film is an exciting thriller and intriguing portrait of people under pressure wrestling with their conscience and careers as the clock ticks...

ZOOTOPIA

Love @DisneyZootopia It's like an episode of "Castle" they shoulda had Stana Katic & Nathan Fillion do the voices!

THE PERFECT MATCH

Terrence J (Jenkins) from "E news" & "Think Like a Man", plays Charlie Mack, a ladies man who accepts a bet with his "boyz" to date the same woman until one of the guy's wedding. That woman is model Eva, played by new comer and R&B singer Cassie Ventura. Eva only wants a hook up type of relationship so she's not deceived, she knows about the bet from the beginning, which I do like... READ POST

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is funny, but the kind of comedy I like, where the tone is laced with the humor of the situation, rather than situational comedy... READ MORE

FIVE NIGHTS IN MAINE

Writer/Director Maris Curran was in Philly to screen her Indie Film which stars Dianne Wiest & David Oyelowo READ POST

RACE

CHITIKA

Thumbtack

A Diet of Pig Brains Keeps One Civilized: PRIDE & PREJUDICE & ZOMBIES

I'm always fascinated by this ever present theme in our collective unconscious that one day we will no longer be worried about race, creed, politics or gender, instead the only separation will be Alive vs Undead! READ POST

T&T ANNUAL OSCARS ROUND UP

SPOTLIGHT MOVIE

ROOM

THE REVENANT

The bear attack, the most realistic application of CGI I’ve ever seen. Without providing a lot of information about the characters, this visceral approach to filmmaking engenders a good deal of empathy for Glass as he struggles to survive... READ POST

THE BIG SHORT

So what's the best way to absorb, digest and find interest in dense material? Give it humor. That's exactly what both the author of the book, Michael Lewis (Moneyball) and particularly director Adam McKay (Anchorman 1&2, Step Brothers) did with The Big Short. Not broad comedy... READ POST

HOW TO BE SINGLE

By Tinsel & Tine Contributor CONNOR BARTHOLOMEW When I saw the first trailer for Christian Ditter’s How to Be Single I was skeptical. As someone who is single in her twenties, I've pretty much heard it all: the You Just Haven't Met The Right Persons, the pitying glances, the acknowledging nods...READ POST

Philly Food Truck Series: GRUBAHOLICS

I don't know why it takes me so long to get back to the Philly Food Truck series. They really are some of my most popular posts! Here's the first for 2016 featuring GRUBAHOLICS! READ POST

THE DANISH GIRL

This is where Redmanyne deserves his Golden Globe nomination, because each scene you see him becoming more and more Lili until it's almost like a split personality disorder where Lili becomes the dominant personality. When he's not Lili, he's also no longer Einar, but some disturbingly androgynous amalgamation. In a subtle twist, the adorable and sensual Gerda... READ POST

TRUMBO

Going into the movie, I knew what it was about, but I was under the impression it was Hollywood vs The Government. I never knew Hollywood turned on itself. Members of the HUAC were made up of Hollywood insiders like John Wayne (David James Elliott), Hedda Hopper (Helen Mirren) and Ronald Reagan. Others like ...READ POST

BROOKLYN

Hornby observes: "I think Eilis can see a life in America and she can see a life in Ireland, but she cannot maintain those two pictures at once. She knows you cannot square these two lives. So I think that's how she momentarily manages to love two people at once, because they are in separate worlds. But ultimately, she has to live in just one."READ MORE

AMY

THE MARTIAN

JOY

Joy is loosely based on the life of QVC darling and household product inventor Joy Mangano, who is a producer on the movie. It's a rags to riches story we can all relate to, as most people at some point, come up with a good idea that you wish you knew how to manufacture, produce, market and see it become a money maker. READ POST

45 YEARS

OSCAR SOCIAL MEDIA PARTY

Click image to see post on CBSPhilly

Philly Restaurant: THE LITTLE LION

History buffs Chris Younge and Jason Dills felt when naming their restaurant, a nod to historic Philadelphia was in order - "The Little Lion" was the nickname for Alexander Hamilton, the nation's first Treasury secretary; not a bad idea to connect the name of any business to money! READ MORE

REVOLUTION TACO

But my favorite sampling of the night wasn't even a taco, and happened to be vegetarian, I can't wait to go back for the Spinach & Fontina Empanada! The seasoned wilted spinach and piping hot cheese, dripping from a crusty pie twinkling with a dusting of sea salt: 4 TINES and a steal at $4 READ POST

Golden Globes Round Up 2016 /Oscar Boycott Dilemma

It's shocking the number of comments from people complaining that race becomes a factor when it comes to Academy Award nominations . They actually pretend to believe the nominees are chosen based solely on a system of excellence. If that were the case, how could Ryan Coogler be overlooked for Best Director? READ MORE

THE HATEFUL EIGHT

SPY

Spy, however, shows all of McCarthy's range, including some major action scenes. And the one liners - many of which I'm certain just spewed out of her in the heat of the moment, had our audience laughing so hard you missed the next two or three lines of the movie...READ POST

FANDANGO AFFILIATE

TRAINWRECK

CAST OF CREED IN PHILLY

STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON

Back when N.W.A. was blowin' up, I would have been listening to Prince, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston and believe it or not, The Judds. Yet, I'd a had to been living under a rock not to be aware of Gangsta Rap and groups like N.W.A and Public Enemy...READ POST

SPECTRE

24TH PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL

STAR WARS MINI REVIEW

I am by far certainly NO expert on the Star Wars Franchise. Seen all 7 movies, but not with any depth of viewing. But as movie-goer, I really enjoyed Star Wars:The Force Awakens not just because you get to spend time with the original cast, but in terms of good story telling. I felt all the prequels with Hayden Christiansen & Natalie Portman were mostly forgettable because George Lucas is so obsessed with CGI and battles that there's very little to connect to in terms of heart & story. JJ Abrams knows how to create balance!

GUEST POST: RORIE STILL

I asked Rorie who has written a compilation of Sci-Fi/Fantasy stories called "Flashbang: Sci-Fi Stories That Will Blow Your Mind" to weigh in on her TOP 5 READ POST

VOICELESS (Philly Made Indie)

It's no wonder the movie took Necerato 4 years to complete, it's a wonder it came to fruition this soon. After all, most Indie films require ample time to procure funding, and often are delayed due to working around schedules dictated by budget concerns; but then you throw a hot button issue like abortion into the mix and you're really working up hill. READ POST

YAKITORI BOY

Not sure why I've never noticed Yakitori Boy before, I've eaten at restaurants very near it, and done karaoke in Chinatown, but this party was my first experience of the place. The bottom level looks like a traditional Japanese restaurant. The 2nd level opens up to a bar/lounge featuring karaoke and private karaoke rooms. The private rooms encourage music themes like 80, 90's, Country, R&B etc...READ POST

BESITO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

I really wasn't expecting the exterior or interior to be so glamorous. When you hear a restaurant is part of a shopping center, even one as upper class as Suburban Square, your expectations are lowered; but get that thinking out of your head because Besito looks and feels more like a resort restaurant in a luxury beach town.READ POST

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA

I'm not that big on survivalist tales, although I like tales of adventure, but there's a difference. Tales of adventure are normally more fantastical and of the characters choosing. Survivalists stories are normally brutally realistic and a happenstance that the character couldn't avoid or had to embark on due to needing funds...READ POST

RENATA'S KITCHEN

The first thing that caught my attention on the menu was the Lemon-Poppy Pancakes - full stack stuffed with lemon-poppy ricotta & lemon custard. I'm big on anything lemon flavored and my all-time favorite muffin is a Lemon Poppy Seed and Pancakes, well, you know!... my only hesitation was that $11.50 price tag...

FIFTY SHADES: BOOK TO FILM COMPARISON

In terms of themes, EL James wrote a classic romantic tale of a wounded man and innocent woman meeting and falling in love, not unlike many such stories in literature - Jane Eyre for instance... READ POST

CAFE BREEZE COMES TO PHILLY

BIG STONE GAP

Hard to get passed some script issues with #BIGSTONEGAP , but I will say, that wedding cake with hot pink frosting and hot pink cake looked SO good. I wonder how many takes Judd had to do eating the cake? That's when I'd love to be a stand in! READ POST

SHNIT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

M. Night Shyamalan THE VISIT

LEARNING TO DRIVE

THE PERFECT GUY

MOOREBETTERFOOD

Dianne Moore founder of MOOREBETTERFOOD of Bala Cynwyd opened up her very lovely home to me, my videographer Jessica Lucky and Illustrator Diane Roka for an interview about women's health, nutrition and eating habits READ POST

THROW BACK: LIMITLESS

Anybody else watch the premiere of "Limitless" on CBS, based on the 2011 Bradley Cooper movie? I thought it was pretty decent. Cooper made a guest appearance on the show. Which reminded me he was also at the "Limitless" movie screening 4yrs ago and I had a chance to ask him a question but totally choked READ POST

NAACP CONVENTION RECAP

As you all know, Tinsel & Tine is hardly a political or socio-economic blog, but it does celebrate Philadelphia, and having both President Barack Obama and President Bill Clinton make appearances; along with a great many tourism $$$ pouring into the "City of Brotherly Love", qualifies as something to celebrate.. READ POST

EAST COAST WINGS

With all those wing flavors, believe it or not, Honey BBQ is their most popular, so our ECW Wing Flight didn't consist of flavors, instead we were served the Honey BBQ, but in 9 degrees of HEAT! READ POST

Viola Davis

Congratulations to Viola Davis for winning Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama series and for giving an amazing speech. Only winner of the night who actually prepared to win! ‪#‎Emmys‬

A WALK IN THE WOODS

"A Walk in the Woods" is nothing like Reese Witherspoon's raw, lonely, penance walk in "Wild". This movie is mainly a buddy comedy, with a toned down comic edge. It's never boring like Redford's lonely sea voyage "All is Lost" (click for T&T post). Thankfully, these guys do get off the trail sometimes and stay in a hotel or go to a diner, which gave me relief watching them come up out of the rain, snow, and threats of bears... READ POST

MISTRESS AMERICA

AMERICAN ULTRA

For a relatively new director, Nima Nourizadeh does a fantastic job keeping the action tight and a good balance between fun, fight stunts and a "save the girl" love story; due in great part to a very workable script by Max Landis. READ POST

FANTASTIC FOUR

The Black Tribbles were in the house, so after the screening of Fantastic Four 2015, they rounded up a group of us movie writer/bloggers for a Fantastic hash session and we dissected the hell outta this flick, both the merits and the misfires! READ POST

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE

ANT-MAN

Vendy Awards 2015 RECAP

MAGIC MIKE XXL: Review and Interview with Stephen "tWitch" Boss

I got a chance to sit down with tWitch at the Sofitel Hotel (120 S 17th St) in Philadelphia. We talked about the mirror dance he does with Tatum in the movie - the perks of being a DJ on "Ellen" - What he likes to eat when he goes home to Alabama and more... He seems like a grounded guy, always willing to give credit to others, the type of person you're happy to see things happening for! Watch Video

SELF/LESS

MARVEL EXPERIENCE RECAP

We met two @MarvelExperience executives in the parking lot as we were leaving, who let us take pictures with Thor's real hammer and Captain America's real shield from ‪the movie Avengers Age of Ultron‬ - They're heavy! More on Marvel Experience

WHILE WE'RE YOUNG

Cuba Libre: Summer Pig Out Every Monday

Chef-Partner Guillermo Pernot of Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar is roasting a pig for 8 hours using a “Caja China,” or Chinese roasting box every Monday night, right out on 2nd street in Old City Philly...READ POST

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

LOOK LIKE A LOCAL: PHILLY

LOOK LIKE A LOCAL:Travelers Not Tourists a new travel and tourist podcast that interviews local residents to find the hidden gems within each city featured. Each episode is an interview in a new destination with a resident who calls it home -Tinsel & Tine got to be interviewed for episode 21 LISTEN

JURASSIC WORLD

Jurassic World takes us back to Jurassic Park, only now it's 20 years later, and the amusement park has become as common as Disney World, even though you have to travel to Costa Rica to get there. John Hammond's vision for Jurassic Park (homage is paid with original logos and other references to the 1st movie) is in the hands of ... READ POST

DuBu Restaurant Opening (Korean BBQ)

The name DUBU is short for Sundubu Jjigae the name of a popular, traditional Korean soup. Dubu Soup is usually made with pieces of pork, small clams (also know as cockles), red-pepper powder, chopped garlic, a few other spices and beef broth.. READ POST

BACKSTAGE NOW CASTING

"Backstage landed me three lead features, MTV and Google commercials, two short films, and several music videos all in five months!"
– Taylor Lashae

5 Flights Up

A Revlock Perspective: INSIDIOUS CHAPTER 3: Into the Further 4D Experience

I didn’t know how to prepare for the Into the Further 4D Experience. The team at Allied warned it would be a mix of frights old-fashioned and newfangled, a fresh take on the haunted house model, a virtual preview of the third chapter of the Insidious saga…READ POST

Philly Filmmaker: Aleksandra Svetlichnaya

Cosplay this is a term I was unfamiliar with till I attended the Philly preview screening of writer/director Aleksandra Svetlichnaya's short film DINNER.. Here's my interview with this up and coming Ukrain born/Philly bred writer/director.. READ POST

Pretty Plum Sugar Partner

Dinner and a Movie: PITCH PERFECT 2 REVIEW AT BAHAMA BREEZE

Check out the video which features Kem of KemKlicks and I discussing the summer sequel Pitch Perfect 2 over dinner at Bahama Breeze Island Grille in King of Prussia WATCH VIDEO

All of which makes independent filmmaker Garrett Batty’s completion of “Freetown” such an accomplishment. “Freetown,” which is playing nationwide, dramatizes the riveting true story of six Mormon missionaries whose faith underwent the ultimate test when they became trapped in Liberia during the 1989 civil war... READ POST

AVENGERS; AGE OF ULTRON

For the first time, I finally began to care about Clint Barton / Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) he's much more than the expendable guy throwing arrows in this movie. He even acknowledges the fact that he's kinda useless compared to the superhuman strengths of the others.READ POST

Interview: Mekhi Phifer for "Insurgent"

Got a chance to talk to Mekhi Phifer at the Four Seasons Philadelphia, about being a part of the Divergent Series: "Insurgent".

On a Food n Film note: Mekhi was hoping to have a Philly Cheese Steak while he was here but ran out of time. The Four Seasons is going to have to set up a delivery system with Pat's or Geno's, cause all the celebs want them when they come for these press junkets.

Mehkhi also answers this question: If you could recreate any movie and put yourself in the lead roll, what would it be?

So check me out in my first on camera interview And CANDI's CORNER INSURGENT Review

Muvee

eBOOKS

ME N MO MEATBALLS & MORE

I got to try, well, try implies I took a bite - I ate 6 or more meatballs, each with its own sauce, along with a generous portion of perfectly weighted Gnocci, all enjoyed with fresh baked focaccia bread...READ POST

BLACK TRIBBLES

TINSEL & TINE'S RADIO DEBUT (Thurs 1/15/15) - I turned the tables on the BLACK TRIBBLES and interviewed them about their black nerdness and 2015 Upcoming Sci-Fi flicks LISTEN TO PODCAST

SELMA Director Ava DuVernay with Tinsel & Tine Editor Le Anne Lindsay

Director Ava DuVernay was in Philadelphia the week before Christmas on a press junket for her stirring and beautifully shot film SELMA. READ INTERVIEW

MOMMY

The film brings us into the world of Diane "Die" Despres (Annie Dorval) an overly made up, aging beauty with a nice figure in her sequined jeans. Her manner is frank and frequently too loud. She's what you'd call a natural survivor. READ POST

GOLD MEDAL WINE CLUB

SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION

SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION is the kind of documentary you'd stumble upon at a small film festival, in between two other films you really came to see. It's only Ethan Hawke's name and longtime connections in the business that could have pushed the film to the forefront.READ POST

Mouth.com

Mouth.com - Our goal is to help you discover and get the best, most delicious and most interesting indie food products and to help indie makers grow their business.

The Wrecking Crew

Covered "The Wrecking Crew" Music Doc during PFS/XPN Music Film Fest, so glad this entertaining, important piece of history is now in theaters! READ POST

Debbie Allen Does Philly

Debbie Allen graciously gave a free "Inside the Actors Studio" type visit to Philly at International House on July 2, 2014. Full of saucy humor and passion, Ms. Allen lectured on creativity, her life's journey, what it means to be an artist, her relationship with her sister Phylicia Rashād, the 18 years it took to get AMISTAD made and so much more... Click HERE to see video excerpt of her address to us lucky enough to attend this inspiring and insightful event.

Philly Spotlight on Pinterest

Philly is #3 on New York Times List of Places to Go in 2015

A series of projects has transformed Philadelphia into a hive of outdoor urban activity. READ ARTICLE

Glowing Review of Tinsel & Tine by The Bicycle-Chef

LeAnne started blogging for a class assignment a few years back. In her funny, irreverent style, she was challenged to think of a pithy blog name and she blurted out, Suck My Pretty Toes! For a year or two, she blogged under this moniker, writing about her favorite pastimes, eating and seeing movies. As her audience grew and her hobby became a bigger passion, she changed the name over to Tinsel and Tine Reel and Dine, to reflect her blog's mission. Tinsel being Hollywood, aka, Tinsel Town. And Tine for the tines of a fork. Making it a bit more clever, she rates her food and restaurant reviews on a scale of fork tines; none, one, two, three, four, as a restaurant or the meal deserves...READ MORE

UPCOMING FILM FESTIVALS

Want to Know1 What Film Festiv1als Are Taking Place and Where? Click HERE

Silver Sites

Links to businesses, people, places and sites that are doing good works, are spiritual in nature, connected to Philly, or all of the above - See list below

NOW YOU SEE ME 2

It’s a year later and three of the Four Horsemen are still fugitives - Magician (J Daniel Atlas /Jesse Eisenberg), Mentalist (Merritt McKinney/Woody Harrelson) sleight-of-hander (Jack Wilder/Dave Franco) Isla Fisher was pregnant at the time of filming and declined to reprise her role as Illusionist Henley Reeves...READ POST

Netflix

Bread Footnote

“If thou tastest a crust of bread, thou tastest all the stars and all the heavens.” 1) Do they bring bread before the meal? 2) Is the bread good enough to be worth all the extra carb calories? 3) Is the bread warm? 4) Are you offered both room temperature butter and an olive oil dipping sauce? 5) Do they offer to bring you more bread!